Curriculum

Requirements for the Major

PSYC 101: Introductory Psychology
Introductory psychology is a team-taught survey of the field. As part of the course, students can volunteer to participate as subjects in faculty research.

PSYC 201: Experimentation and Statistics
This course prepares students for the science of psychology by teaching fundamentals of deriving hypotheses, design, data collection, analysis and research report writing. We strongly recommend that majors take it in the sophomore year and require that it be completed by the end of the junior year.

Three 200 level courses. As a follow-up to introductory psychology, 200-level courses are offered in each of the core areas. Majors take at least three, with at least one from each of the following groups:

*Either Psychology 221 or 222, but not both, can count towards the three required 200-level courses

Three 300-level courses. An array of 300-level lab and seminar courses enable students to conduct original research, work in applied settings, and engage in small group discussion of primary source material. Majors take at least three 300-level courses from at least two of the six areas listed below. At least one of these 300-level courses must be from among those carrying the designation Empirical Lab Course. (With the approval of the department, students may substitute two courses in associated fields for one of the required 300-level courses. Students must apply in writing for this approval.)

PSYC 397/398: Independent Study
Open to upperclass students with permission of the instructor and department. Students interested in doing an independent study should make prior arrangements with the appropriate professor. The student and professor then complete the independent study proposal form available at the Registrars Office.

PSYC 401: Perspectives on Psychological Issues
This “capstone” course brings all senior majors together for in-depth discussions and debates of current controversial topics.

The Degree with Honors in Psychology

Students who are candidates for Honors need take only two 300-level courses from two different areas, but they must enroll in Psychology 493-W031-494 and write a thesis based on original empirical work. Guidelines for pursuing the degree with Honors are available from the department.